The event starts at 4PM with the National Guard Dixieland Jazz Band and features a Tug of War Championship, a Pie-in-the-Face event (our crazy-brave friends are going to get messy!), and a watermelon eating contest. After a jam-packed day with music from the Caribe Steel Band and local beats from “The Ultimate Dance Band” Uncle Funk and the Dope 6, it’s finally time to shoot for the stars with a fireworks diplay sponsored by First Federal.

So what is “steampunk?” And what does it have to do with Port Townsend?

Steampunk started as a science fiction genre back in the 1980s, where authors re-imagined 19th century society having advanced mostly steam-powered technology, based on the fashion, architecture and culture at the time. Think French author Jules Verne and his famous submarine, or H.G. Wells’ time machine.

The event is officially known as “The Brass Screw Confederacy” and it is a celebration of both history and fantasy, and a well-earned excuse to dress up in layers of Victorian-inspired attire, which is where Port Townsend comes in with its rich seafaring history and recognition as a Historic Seaport.

What better setting for this retro-themed festival that looks to the future? Enjoy music, speakers or just do some people watching this June 9-11.